The large white elm in Treptower Park becomes a national heritage tree!
On September 25, 2025, the Great Flat Elm in Treptower Park will be recognized as a national heritage tree. Citizens are invited.

The large white elm in Treptower Park becomes a national heritage tree!
A special ceremony will be held in Treptower Park on September 25, 2025 at 1:00 p.m. during which the Great White Elm (Ulmus laevis) will be formally named a National Heritage Tree. The event takes place in the rose garden, about 150 meters to the right/east of the jetty, directly next to the impressive elm tree with a trunk circumference of 6.35 meters and a height of about 25 meters. Citizens are warmly invited to take part in this important event, as the website of the Treptow-Köpenick district report.
The ceremony will offer a varied program that starts with a welcome. Welcome words and a presentation of the project follow. The criteria that national heritage trees, such as the white elm, meet are discussed. The event concludes with the unveiling of a plaque and press photos.
The importance of the white elm
The white elm is recognized for its distinctive characteristics. Although it is not over 400 years old, it dates from before the park was founded 150 years ago, which makes it particularly remarkable. The tree has a uniform growth ring development because it uses water from a depth of 1.5 to 2 meters. This makes them not only an impressive sight, but a valuable part of Berlin's flora.
The initiative to award national heritage trees is implemented under the board of trustees of the German Dendrological Society and supported by the Eva Mayr-Stihl Foundation. This recognition is intended to help raise awareness of the ecological and cultural values of outstanding tree individuals and to secure their living conditions.
A gem in Treptower Park
Treptower Park, designed by Gustav Meyer in the 19th century, is one of the largest and most popular green spaces in Berlin. It offers its visitors lawns, historic avenues, walking paths and access to the Spree. The park is an important habitat for birds, bats and insects and contributes to urban biodiversity. The ecological functions of green spaces, such as improving air quality and storing CO₂, are essential for sustainable urban development.
The white elm is one of the ten strongest and oldest trees in Berlin and is in the top five in the east of the city. Unlike the field elm, which has become rare, the white elm is less susceptible to Dutch elm disease, making it a resilient urban tree. Their construction and care are valued by the residents of the district, which is reflected in their commitment to urban greenery. The upcoming event is not only a celebration of nature, but also symbolizes the population's awareness of the importance of ancient trees and their protection.
For further information about the project and the fluttering elm, we invite you to visit the website National Heritage Trees.